"Miya's Law" was filed Wednesday in Tallahassee- named for the college student- 19 year old Miya Marcano- allegedly murdered by a maintenance worker at the apartment complex in Orlando where she lived and worked. The focus of the proposed law is to provide better security for tenants. The bill's sponsor- Orlando state Senator Linda Stewart- says it's sorely needed.
"Millions of apartment residents in Florida trust they will be safe when they sign a lease," Senator Stewart said. "Unfortunately there is no requirement for apartments to run background checks when hiring an employee."
The bill would require background checks for apartment complex employees and that 24 hour notice be given before employees can enter a unit. It would also tighten policies for who may have access to the master key. Deputies say a master key was used by a maintenance worker to get into Marcano's unit at the Arden Villas Apartments. The student at Valencia College disappeared in September and her body was found several days later. Miya’s mother, Yma Scarbriel, says her daughter’s death was preventable.
"'Miya's Law' will prevent future incidents like this from ever happening again. Apartment complex's must be more diligent in implementing and enforcing policies and procedures that will ensure tenants are safe."
State lawmakers will consider the bill when they meet during the regular session that begins next month.
Image courtesy Getty